We talk with Luay, from Urban Farm and Kitchen in Toronto, about how he started growing food, his gardens, some favourite recipes, failure, and tips for new gardeners.
His day job in the engineering industry is hectic and includes lots of travel. Gardening and cooking are his way of unwinding.
Luay currently grows in his backyard and at a municipal allotment garden. But he didn’t grow up gardening. His interest in gardening was piqued by unusual vegetables he got through a CSA subscription. Once his interest had been piqued, he started small—with a tomato plant on his balcony.
His backyard includes raised beds, fruit trees, and an area to eat and entertain…but he admits that potted edible plants make their way into all parts of the yard.
Luay loves to cook with what’s in season. As we talk, it’s fresh tomatoes. The kitchen is his place to unwind.